Amanwella, Tangalle
Further south, on Tangalle’s peaceful shores, Amanwella’s celebrations are led by the rhythm of the tide. On 29 January, start with cocktails at the Lounge Bar accompanied by a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance.
The captivating show is followed by dinner at the Main Restaurant, serenaded by a live calypso band, before the evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display with a live drummer, set on the resort’s golden sands.
SOUTHEAST ASIA
Amanpuri, Thailand
On the edge of the Andaman Sea, the original Aman ushers in the Lunar New Year with a carefully curated programme blending cultural immersion with rest and rejuvenation. Amanpuri’s programme commences on 28 January, with children’s crafts and games including face painting, balloon pop, musical chairs and ping-pong toss.
Later, as day turns to dusk, a tranquil candlelit dinner begins to unfold under the stars. Set by the main pool, a menu of Chinese delicacies featuring the finest ingredients from land and sea is served and enhanced by an awe-inspiring Dragon Dance, fire show and the uplifting sounds of Guzheng music – each performance offering blessings of prosperity and joy for the year ahead.
Amanoi, Vietnam
At Amanoi, the Lunar New Year is a celebration of family, combining serene time out on golden shores, with cultural traditions, daily complimentary wellness sessions and indulgent festive dining. On 28 January, the day starts with a scenic trek to Rock Park, followed by a relaxing group painting session and immersive Banh Chung (rice cake) cooking class.
Guests can then master cocktail-making before indulging in a four-course Vietnamese ‘Mam Co Tat Nien’ dinner accompanied by live music and stargazing with an expert guide.
On 29 January, the celebration begins with a Buddhist blessing to welcome the Year of the Snake, while the afternoon brings traditional folk games and a traditional calligraphy class to awaken the creative spirit. A Vinh Hy Seafood Barbecue makes for an indulgent dinner with fresh grilled lobster, steamed clams and more, served at the Beach Club.
The following day’s programme includes a cycle to Thai An Village, a Vietnamese spring roll cooking class, fortune telling, and a dinner of Japanese specialties paired with fine sake.
The days ahead follow suit, with nightly themed dining experiences showcasing world cuisine, and daily crafts keeping little ones entertained.
